First we were introduced to lightweight laptop computers, then ultra-thin smartphones, now loonie-sized iPods. Tomorrow you may be carrying your entire computer as a jewel-sized bauble on your finger. As hardware becomes smaller and less expensive to produce, innovators are looking to wearable technology as the next “big thing” in technology.
While wearable technology is undoubtedly an exciting opportunity, it is still largely in the early-adopter stage. While most of us have heard of “Google Glass“, Google’s foray into wearable tech, many of fashion-conscious consumers are skeptical of a product that is too awkward and “geeky” to wear discreetly. The $1500 price tag is also a big deterrent. However, not all wearable technology products are geared towards the geeky. Fitness enthusiasts have embraced wearable technology wholeheartedly, with subtle step-tracking gadgets such as Fitbit and Nike+ Fuelband. As price tags decrease and designs become more fashionable, we can expect to see wearables in the mainstream.
Pebble, a Kickstarter-funded project, is a simple and stylish watch that connects with your smartphone. The watch can control music and receive text messages, a convenient feature when your phone is in your purse or pocket (not to mention dinner or a business meeting where checking your phone is inappropriate). The watch connects to fitness app “RunKeeper” to track run distances and speeds and more apps are currently in development. At only $150 and available in 5 colours, the Pebble is an accessible and subtle introduction to wearable tech.
If you’re not ready to give up your Rolex, InteraXon’s “Muse” is a brainwave-sensing headband that appears to be straight out of a sci-fi novel. The six-sensor device scans your brainwaves to your phone or tablet. The headband claims to reduce stress, improve memory, and even control games and devices directly with your mind.
Photo credit: Faby Martin
Calgary-based wearable technology festival MakeFashion pairs hackers, makers and engineers with fashion designers for an annual runway show. Last year’s event featured a motion-sensitive garment designed by Laura Dempsey. Each part of the body is outfitted with an individual sensor, illuminating the dress with every movement. The space-age dress is currently not available for retail, but if you’re interested in obtaining one contact info@makefashion.ca for details. MakeFashion is also hosting an upcoming accessories competition open to the public to create the next innovation in wearables.
Everyday commuters will soon be benefiting from wearable technology. A team of engineers from MIT have created the 3D-printed “Sesame Ring”, which has an RFID tag to pay for transit fare. Rather than fumbling for public transportation smart cards, commuters wear their passes on a fashionable, customizable ring. Not only can purchasers specify ring colours, but they can also choose a four-letter word or custom design to be encoded in the ring. The innovation can foreseeable be used for a number of purposes other than transit, including office security, conferences, and e-commerce.
Top Photo Credit: Leszek Soltys (via stock.xchng)
Bio: Chelsea Klukas is Digital Alberta Director and a creative professional in Calgary who specializes in technology and startups. She is also the co-founder and marketing director of MakeFashion, Canada’s premier wearable technology festival. If you’re interested in wearable technology, contact chelsea here. Full bio and Twitter.
